Hasnain Zaheer

Professional Background

Dr. Hasnain Zaheer is a highly accomplished educator and researcher in the realm of higher education, particularly noted for his exceptional work in digital entrepreneurship. With a wealth of experience in both academic and industry settings, Dr. Zaheer has made significant contributions to learning and teaching (L&T) practices, alongside pioneering research efforts that have been recognized in prestigious peer-reviewed journals.

His extensive career includes a notable tenure at Macquarie University in Sydney, where he leads a flourishing digital entrepreneurship research program. This initiative has not only resulted in numerous publications but also a steady pipeline of forthcoming research articles that reinforce his role as a thought leader in the field. Dr. Zaheer's commitment to academic excellence is evident through his recognition as a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (FHEA).

In addition to his role as a researcher, Dr. Zaheer has served as a unit convenor for key courses at both Macquarie University and Western Sydney University. His course offerings include specialized topics such as Social Media Management and Innovation, Creativity & Foresight in Project Management. He has also expanded his impact beyond traditional education settings by facilitating digital strategy workshops at the University of Sydney and providing vocational training across multiple disciplines including leadership, marketing, and project management.

Education and Achievements

Dr. Zaheer’s academic credentials are reflective of his commitment to understanding the burgeoning field of digital entrepreneurship. He earned his Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) with a focus on Entrepreneurship, Strategic Management, and Digital Entrepreneurship at Macquarie University, where he also completed a Master of Research with Distinction in Digital Entrepreneurship, as well as a Master’s in Management and a Bachelor of Philosophy in Business Administration and Management. These degrees not only underpin his extensive knowledge but also illustrate a robust academic foundation vital for his roles in teaching and research.

Over the years, Dr. Zaheer has embraced a wide spectrum of research themes, extending beyond digital entrepreneurship to encompass areas such as digital business strategy, digital innovation management, and applications of digital technologies in e-learning. This broad expertise enables him to provide valuable insights and teaching that are deeply informed by contemporary industry practices.

Notable Contributions and Experience

Dr. Zaheer's career before academia included significant roles in several innovative companies where he utilized creativity and strategic thinking to drive forward digital marketing initiatives. As a part of Overture—an industry leader recognized for pioneering search engine marketing—he played a critical role in shaping digital marketing strategies. His tenure at Yahoo! included functional leadership positions, allowing him to influence search marketing on a considerable scale.

His contributions to the digital marketing field continued at 24/7 Real Media, where he was instrumental in product management for the Decide DNA digital marketing platform, which is utilized in global WPP digital campaign management. This depth of experience has not only enriched his academic pursuits but has also validated his teaching methods, which are informed by real-world applications.

Moreover, Dr. Zaheer founded a boutique digital strategy agency in Sydney, where his innovative strategies have been showcased in the renowned marketing textbook by Philip Kotler et al. This agency reflects his entrepreneurial spirit, along with his co-founding of a digital startup that underscores his dedication to fostering digital capabilities. By helping build capacity in various organizations, he has cemented his status as a bridge between academia and industry, ensuring that his students benefit from insights that are current and relevant.

Dr. Zaheer has held various roles that further illustrate his unique qualifications. His previous positions include being a Director of Digital Strategy at Simplogy, a Business and Technical Analyst at 24/7 Real Media, and a Senior Executive Officer at the National Stock Exchange of India. These experiences collectively highlight his adaptability and depth of knowledge in various sectors, from finance to digital marketing.

Publications and Research Endeavors

The impact of Dr. Zaheer's research is reflected in his extensive publication record, where he explores key issues affecting digital entrepreneurship and related fields. His contributions to scholarly journals have not only advanced the body of knowledge in his area of expertise but have also provided practical frameworks that business leaders and aspiring entrepreneurs can utilize.

In conclusion, Dr. Hasnain Zaheer's multifaceted career, anchored in his strong educational background and extensive industry experience, positions him as a leading figure in the field of digital entrepreneurship research and higher education. Through his teaching, research, and industry collaboration, Dr. Zaheer continues to inspire a new generation of entrepreneurs, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to thrive in an increasingly digital landscape.